Conatus: The Heart and Soul of Fuerteventura’s Wine Revolution
Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Fuerteventura, Bodega Conatus represents not only an emerging wine endeavor but a deep-rooted passion for viticulture. The name “Conatus,” derived from Latin, meaning effort, aptly reflects the journey of its founder, Pedro Martín, who has embarked on a mission to craft exceptional wines in an unlikely setting.
A New Dawn for Fuerteventura Wine
Last year marked a significant milestone for Conatus as it produced its very first batch, bottling around 600 bottles. This year, a bold plan is in place to increase production to an impressive 2,600 bottles, with aspirations to scale up to 2,000 bottles of red wine and 600 of white wine. Located in Lajares (La Oliva), the winery is a beacon of hope for those who dare to challenge the norms of winemaking in a region traditionally overlooked for its viticultural potential.
A Heritage of Soil and Vines
The vineyard where Pedro cultivates his grapes is a labor of love, inheriting this land from his father and also incorporating plots from family members. This personal connection to the land is crucial: “We have space to plant more, and plans are in motion to expand the winery,” Pedro shares. Presently, the winery can accommodate 5,000 liters, but the vision extends further. His desire to gradually increase production aligns seamlessly with his family legacy, bridging the past with future aspirations.
Learning the Craft
Pedro’s journey into the world of winemaking didn’t stem from formal education, but rather an innate passion and curiosity. His initial motivation was to explore the craft rather than to be constrained by technical knowledge. However, the path was not without its challenges. “I started without much knowledge, simply because I liked it; I wanted to plant grapes and make wine,” he recounts.
The turning point for Pedro came when he met Alberto González, a seasoned oenologist known for his work at Lanzarote’s Bodega Stratvs and now at Bodega Rubicón. “Alberto has been my savior,” Pedro attests. Through guidance and mentorship, González has become an essential collaborator in fermenting and crafting the wine, advising Pedro throughout each phase of the year.
Facing Skepticism with Determination
Venturing into red wine production in Fuerteventura was met with skepticism. “Everyone said I was crazy for wanting to make red wine; they believed it was impossible here,” Pedro recalls. Yet, he found a kindred spirit in Alberto, who echoed his belief: “To produce a good red wine, you need quality grapes and expertise. It’s possible, and it can be delicious.” The confidence in creating quality wines resonates in Pedro’s approach; Conatus aims to contribute to the growing landscape of fine wines emerging from the Canary Islands.
The Unique Terroir of Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura isn’t just another island; it boasts unique climatic and soil conditions that can lead to exceptional wine production. Among the grape varieties Pedro works with are Listán Negro and Listán Prieto. Notably, he highlights the ancient vines of Betancuria, recognized as the earliest in the Canary Islands. For white wine, Pedro relies on the traditional Listán Blanco and Malvasía, both well-suited to the island’s conditions, with experimentation introducing varieties from other islands like Tenerife and El Hierro.
Embracing the Future of Canary Wines
Bodega Conatus proudly operates under the Canary Wine protected designation of origin, illustrating a commitment to quality and regional authenticity. With the last batch of wines soon to be bottled, Pedro’s vision includes making his creations available in select, quality-centric establishments. “Islands like ours must focus on producing high-end wines, as there is a discerning audience that appreciates them,” he emphasizes.
His journey represents not just a personal ambition, but a larger narrative for Fuerteventura’s winemaking sector, one that aims to elevate this island on the wine map and usher in a new era for its vinous offerings. As Conatus continues to grow, it embodies the spirit of adventure, exploration, and, above all, the relentless pursuit of quality in every bottle.
